DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



<L.. 



REPORT 



ON THE 



CONDITION OF DAIRYING 



IN THE 



PRINCIPAL DAIRY STATES 



FOR TILE 



SEASON OF 1885. 



WASHINGTON: 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 
1886. 




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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



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REPORT 



ON THE 



CONDITION OF DAIRYING 



IN THE 



PRINCIPAL DAIRY STATES 



FOR THE 



SEASON OF 1885 



WASHINGTON: 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 
1886. 

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Department of Agriculture, 

September 1 , 1886. 

Sir : I respectfully submit for publication a statement of the condi- 
tions affecting the dairy industry of the principal dairy States for the 
season of 1885, as shown by the remarks which accompanied the re- 
turns. Unfortunately, as heretofore, the returns have been too few, and 
too imperfect in details, to warrant an impartial publication of the av- 
erages of dairy products in the several States. 

ALLEN DODGH, 

Dairy Division. 
Hon. Norman J. Colman, 

Commissioner. 



THE DAIRY INDUSTRY. 



The condition of the dairy industry in the several States, lying in 
what is usually termed the dairy belt, is herewith reported for the sea- 
son of 1885, extending through a period of six months, beginning with 
May and ending with October. A census of this industry being im- 
possible, with limited data, this report necessarily exhibits only the 
condition of the business, as shown in the digest of remarks by persons 
who have sent returns from those States, giving the causes of depres- 
sion, atmospheric influences, kind and character of cows employed, and 
methods of feeding. 

It will be observed that this business fluctuates, as does every other, 
having its ebbs and flows as circumstances vary, one section showing a 
prosperous outlook, whilst another may be depressed. Low prices, at- 
tributed to competition with oleomargarine and like products ; wet 
seasons depreciating the productive qualities of pasturage ; droughts 
affecting both grass and water; severity of winter weather and insuffi- 
ciency of shelter and feed ; distance from market and excessive freights 
thereto, have all produced their various effects. 

Inadequate and incomplete returns have been received from some 
States, known to be extensively engaged in dairying, which can only 
be accounted for by the fact that nothing has been issued from the De- 
partment in acknowledgment of dairy reports previously forwarded, 
hence the manifest indisposition to furnish important data. There were 
many hindrances to the publication of dairy details in previous years, 
aud the hope may be confidently indulged that this statement, meager 
as it may be, will induce more comprehensive responses to future in- 
quiries. It is especially desirable that the addresses of dairymen, in 
the vicinity of those receiviug this publication, may be forwarded ta 
this Department, that circulars for information may be more widely 
distributed, and the scope of inquiry thus materially extended. 

The States of Tennessee and Mississippi have lately embarked in 
dairying, and to such an extent that they may be justly classed among' 
the dairy States, thus dispelling the illusory dairy belt. These States 
could more profitably, perhaps, than those farther north, engage in win- 
ter dairying, as their milder climate, with judicious management, would 
secure a more constant and uniform supply of milk. Efforts will be 
directed towards obtaining reports of their dairy industry. 

5 



6 

It is very desirable to acquire data respecting winter dairying. Many 
dairies are operated all the year round ; many only in winter. If the 
managers of the latter, whose efforts are exclusively directed towards 
winter work, should furnish details of management, with statements 
of results, giving the entire cost of manufacture, kinds of feed used, 
care of stock, &c, a comparison could be made with summer-dairying 
that would prove instructive and advantageous to those farmers who 
are largely engaged in grain raising, and with whom scarcity of labor 
at that season prevents sufficient attention to dairy matters to insure 
success. 

Now that the new law respecting oleomargarine is to be enforced 
and the public are to be protected from imposition in its purchase, less 
complaint may be expected from dairymen, and the prosecution of the 
business will doubtless receive a fresh impetus. But one thing is cer- 
tain — butter of inferior grades must be relegated to the soap-vat and 
that of a really good and wholesome grade, placed on the market at 
a price commensurate with the cost of manufacture and remunerative 
returns. 

It is to be regretted that no statement of the entire amount of imi- 
tation products manufactured in this country can be obtained. It is 
variously estimated to be from sixty to seventy-five million pounds. 
The provisions of section 5 of the oleomargarine law will hereafter fur- 
nish this information. The collection of the revenue tax, should it do 
no more, will inform the public of the extent, and perhaps the methods, 
of these manufactures. 

The additional requirement of a distinctive coloring of these imitation 
articles would fully insure the public against imposition in their pur- 
chase, thereby protecting the producer of the genuine dairy products, 
as well as relieving the middleman from the odium of selling goods ot 
doubtful character. The unscrupulous retailer would find his avoca 
lion gone. 

The all-important information is still wanting to enable a tabular 
statement to be published, of the various averages of milk, butter, cheese, 
value per cow,&c. Many dairymen iu some of the States have responded 
cordially to the circulars of the Department; others have sent so few 
returns that no averages could be deduced that would be just or cred- 
itable to a State. Until, therefore, the replies are general and thorough 
in all particulars a publication of averages must be withheld. 

When a great number of returns are received from dairymen, showing 
the condition of dairyiug in a majority of the counties of a State, aver- 
ages will be prepared for comparison of one county with another. 

Following is a digest of remarks accompanying the return circulars, 
which will afford an intelligent conception of the circumstances attend- 
ing the dairy industry of the States named, and acquaint the dairymen 
of one section with the business status of another. 



DIGEST OF REMARKS ACCOMPANYING THE DAIRY RETURNS. 

CALIFORNIA. 

The dairy industry of California is of such diverse character that no 
regular system prevails, owing principally to the variant conditions of 
climate, feed, &c. This is not remarkable, however, considering the 
extended area of the State, covering, as it does, 10 degrees of latitude. 

In Humboldt County, the northwestern part of the State, the season 
of 1885 is represented to have been very dry, stock not having done as 
well as usual. Pasturage, which is principally upon the mountain sides? 
dries up in August, but upon the coast it is good all the year. Butter 
is the principal product, very little cheese being made. The cows are 
Jerseys, grade Short-horn and native stock, small sized animals being 
considered better for the hill-side pastures. The climate is moderate, 
never too hot to injure milk or prevent the working of butter. "No 
snow, light frosts, and ice occasionally as thick as a window-glass." 

Oleomargarine is said to have reduced the price of butter five cents 
per pound. 

In Los Angeles County, the southern part of the State, mildness of 
climate and green feed enable the dairyman to continue business 
throughout the year. The pasturage consists of alfalfa and wild grass, 
the former being mostly fed in a wilted condition to prevent bloating. 
In the fall the failing pasturage is supplemented by alfalfa hay, until 
the rainy season begins. The use of alfalfa makes dairying more prof- 
itable than grain growing, being less affected by drought. The cows are 
grade Jerseys and Holsteins. 

Similar conditions of climate, feed, and stock prevail in Napa County. 

The dairy season in Marin County, the western part of the State, runs 
from January to Jul}'. The county is hilly, lying along the coast, fogs 
and the sea breeze being very favorable to dairying. Pasturage con- 
sists of the natural grasses, oats, clover, bunch grass, and Alfilaria. 
This last is also called " pin-grass, properly neither a grass nor a clover, 
but a plant belonging to the geranium family." It is remarked by Pro- 
fessor Brewer, in the Botany of California, that "it is a valuable and 
nutritious forage plant, reputed to impart an excellent flavor to milk 
and butter." The climate of Marin County is very temperate ; no snow,, 
hot days uncommon, and hot nights unknown. Ice is not used. The 
cows are graded with Eastern blood for dairy purposes, and are turned 
dry in August and September, wintering well on natural food, without 
shelter. The season of 1885 was poor, feed short, and products low ; 
consequently, daily returns were less than in previous years. Oleo- 
margarine shipped from the East is used as a substitute for home-made 
butter by mining and railroad employes to the detriment of legitimate 
dairying. 



8 

In Monterey County, situated in the western part of the State, the 
season was dry and feed short. Alfalfa, the main reliance for feed, was 
thought to have given cheese a bad flavor, consequently causing low 
prices. It would have been interestiug had a similar effect upon outter 
been noted, but no returns of butter-making in that county have been 
received. 

In Sacramento County, the central part of the State, the principal 
dairy season runs from August to January, feed being more abundant 
at that season and prices more remunerative. Alfalfa constitutes the 
chief provision for cows. No cheese is reported for this county. 

San Luis Obispo, in the southern portion of the State, reports great 
destruction of crops by grasshoppers. The climate is very mild, the 
average temperature being 61° Fahrenheit. Grass keeps greeu all 
winter. Light rainfall last spring. The dairy season begins usually 
in December, although sometimes in October, by feeding the cows upon 
oat and wheat hay until the commencement of the rainy season. In 
some parts of the county pasturage comprises burr clover, alfilaria, 
oat and bunch-grass. The native grasses dry up in June, when cows 
fall off in milk. Ayrshire and Jersey grades prevail. In some sections 
bloody-murrain has infected the cows and black-leg the calves. 

In Santa Cruz County, the western part of the State, returns from 
the dairy were light, principally on account of the dry season and low 
prices prevailing. 

Siskiyou County, in the northern part of the State, also reports a 
dry season, which operated against dairying. Cost of transportation 
likewise affected dairy interests. The climate, however, is stated as being 
good for butter or cheese making, assured by cool nights and excellent 
water. Cows are a cross of Short-horn and Devon breeds. In some in- 
stances they are stabled and fed upon timothy hay. 

Sonoma County, in the western section, likewise reports a dry sea- 
son. Pasturage and product light. Cattle are of the Short horn breed, 
and are fed in the winter upon corn ensilage, alternating with barley 
aud oat hay. Ensilage is sometimes fed in June and July, after the 
pastures have dried, with good results. Oleomargarine is deprecated 
on account of being used as a substitute for pure butter. 

COLORADO. 

From Colorado a few returns have been received, the details of which 
are so imperfect that no reliable deductions can be made of the dairy 
business of the State. It is stated, however, from the central counties, 
that the conditions for a prosperous business exist, but, owing to vari- 
ous causes, attention has not been directed very generally to dairying. 
The regular season continues only four months. Farmers stable their 
cows in winter, and fred them upon native hay, alfalfa and clover, with 
the addition of ground food. The climate and other natural conditions 
are favorable to butter-making, but scarcity and high price of labor, 



together with low price of products, and competition with oleomargarine, 
operate against dairy interests. The general dairy stock, comprises 
grade Short horn, Devon, and native breeds. 

CONNECTICUT. 

From Connecticut comes a very flattering account of pasturage, cli- 
mate, and character of stock, favorable to the dairy business. 

In Hartford County, the northern part of the Stat^, the pasturage is 
represented to have been excellent, particularly the latter part of the 
season, greatly prolonging the supply of milk. Tbe climate is healthful 
to cows, which are generally grade Jerseys and Guernseys. These are 
kept in warm stables, and fed upon hay and grain, sometimes upon 
corn and cotton-seed meal, oats, bran, and roots. Winter dairying re- 
ceives great attentiou. 

Middlesex County, in the southern part of the State, reports pasturage 
of an average character, supplemented by meal and bran. 

In New Haven County, also in the southern part of the State, past- 
urage was good the first part of the season, but was shortened by drought 
in June and July. Cows are generally three-fourths Jerseys, large 
registered herds being owned by some farmers. Oleomargarine is 
thought to injure sales of poor butter rather than good. It is strongly 
urged that some distinctive coloring should be prescribed for its ready 
detection. 

DAKOTA. 

Dakota, comparatively new in agricultural pursuits, presents quite a 
meager account of dairying. The several returns from the southeast- 
ern section of the Territory report like conditions of pasturage, the 
native grasses being very good, but drying up early in summer, making 
the dairy season of short duration. Butter, the only product, is of ex- 
cellent quality, but sells at low prices, being brought into competition 
with oleomargarine. The climate is good, although the winters are 
severe, requiring cows to be housed and fed on hay in extreme weather. 
Snort-horn grades prevail, and are better adapted for beef than milk 
purposes. x 

ILLINOIS. 

From the State of Illinois very favorable accounts of the dairy in- 
dustry are at hand. 

In Boone County, the northern section of the State, an excess of rain 
injnied the pasturage and somewhat impoverished the quality of milk, 
yet the outcome was fully an average one. The winters are too severe 
for winter dairying. Cows are fed well upon hay and ground feed. 
Oleomargarine is greatly deprecated. 

Carroll County, in the northwestern section, reports good pasturage 
mostly of tame grass, climate good, although very severe in winter. 
Cows are housed and fed upon hay and grain. 



10 

Christian County, in the center of the State, possesses pastures equal 
to any in the country, being largely composed of blue grass, timothy, 
white and red clover. Pasturage was valued at $1.25 a head per month, 
frequent rains having kept it very good all the reason. Water is plen- 
tiful, being obtained from wells eleven to thirty feet deep. The climate 
is healthful for cattle, if sheltered from cold rains and sleet in winter, 
and fed upon fodder with some grain. This method is generally ob- 
served. 

Clay County, in the south, has not first-class pasturage. The climate, 
however, is unexceptionable, perhaps somewhat dry before fall rains 
begin. Cows are rather indifferent, being generally natives and not 
well wintered. A prohibitory law is advocated against oleomargarine 
and like products. 

Clinton County, also in the south, is represented to be a fine stock 
country, blue grass and clover abounding in the pastures. Cows are 
wintered upon corn, clover hay, and bran, having very little shelter. 

Cook County, in the northeast, is largely devoted to dairy pursuits. 
The pasturage is of tame grasses. The climate is good for stock, which 
is wintered in barns. Business greatly demoralized. 

In De Kalb County, the northern part of the State, nine-tenths of the 
pastures are composed of timothy and clover, the other tenth of wild or 
native grasses. The cows are of native stock, and are generally housed 
in winter and fed upon oats and corn gro und together, or upon mill-feed 
and hay. 

Du Page County, in the northeast, is represented to be a good dairy 
section with excellent pastures. Holstein cattle are being introduced, 
to the improvement of the milch cows ; but butterine is decried as injur- 
ing the sale of pure butter, being sold 8 or 10 cents less per pound. 
u The makers of spurious dairy articles do not scruple to use the brand 
or name of any creamery to deceive the people." 

In some parts of this county winter dairying is followed, and a large 
number of dry cows are kept during summer for winter use, which 
greatly shortens the pasturage. " Oleomargarine-makers buy up the 
best creamery butter to mix with their compounds, repacking it in the 
same tubs, and then produce the freight bills to prove that they handle 
creamery butter." 

In Greene County, the western part of the State, the dairy business 
is in its infancy, and is likely to continue so unless the manufacture of 
imitation butter is repressed. 

Iroquois County, in the eastern part of the State, possesses decidedly 
the most flattering prospects for dairying of any other county, on ac- 
count of having the finest pasturage, as well as flowing wells of excel- 
lent water, obtained at a cost of only $30 to $40, and of 52 degrees tem- 
perature. Dairying, however, has never been made an exclusive busi- 
ness, as in parts of New York State, and is fast dying out, owing to the 
introduction of spurious butter. Many fanners have resorted to rais- 
ing calves, feeding them all the milk. 



11 

Kendall County, in the north, reports good pasturage the whole sea- 
son. Farmers, however, prefer stock-raising to producing milk. They 
are turning their attention to winter dairying. The cows being mostly 
Short-horns are not noted as great milk producers ; besides they are 
allowed to run at large during winter, which impairs their milking 
properties. 

In Knox County, the western section, the past season was said to 
have been very disastrous to the dairy interests, owing to dry weather, 
and the pastures being denuded by grasshoppers. 

Lake County, in the northeast, reports that frequent rain-storms 
have influenced tbe quality of milk. The climate is reputed to be 
healthful for stock, although severely cold in winter. The dairymen 
generally have warm stables for their co«s, and these, when liberally 
fed upon bran, oat and corn meal, make better returns in winter than 
in summer. The stock is being crossed with Holstein, Ayrshire, Jersey, 
and Short-horn breeds. Oleomargarine is considered to be very det- 
rimental to the dairy interests. 

In Lee county, the northern part of the State, the pastures are said 
to have been fed so closely as to have required, in summer, the addition 
of other food, such as ground oats, corn, and bran, with fodder and hay. 
The cattle are grades of all the improved breeds, and some few full- 
bloods. 

Marion County, in the south, possesses neither good pastures nor 
good stock. The climate, however, is favorable for stock, cows running 
almost entirely at large. Every facility exists for dairying, as it is essen- 
tially a butter section, but the present settlers must give way to Eastern 
people before the business can be prosecuted successfully. 

McDonough County, in the west, reports excellent pastures, except 
local injury by grasshoppers, which entirely destroyed timothy and 
clover in some places, during the latter part of summer. The climate 
is very suitable for dairying. Short horn grade cows prevail, which are 
materially injured in winter by running in stalk-fields, often suffering 
for water. In another part of this county a correspondent represents 
the pasturage of blue grass, clover, and timothy to be excellent. Dairy- 
ing is not made a specialty, yet it is followed in winter to some extent, 
the cows being fed upon hay, corn fodder, and grain. 

In McHeury County, the northern part of the State, pastures were 
injured by excessive rains at one time and drought at another. Jersey 
cows are used in the dairy, being well fed upon hay, corn fodder, bran, 
and meal. 

Ogle County, in the north, reports good pasturage the whole season 
and stock in good flesh, having been well wintered. Clover and tim- 
othy constitute the pasturage. The climate is all that could be desired 
for the flow of milk and yield of cream. Cows are grade Jerseys, Hol- 
steins, and Short-horns, and are wintered on hay and corn-meal. 



12 

INDIANA. 

In Porter County, the northwestern part of the State, pasturage is 
principally wild prairie and low marsh grass. Holstein cows are being 
introduced and appreciated. They are well stabled and fed in winter. 

In Wells County, northeastern section, the grasshoppers ruined the 
pastures. Cows are natives, and not well enough wintered to make 
them profitable. Swiss cheese is manufactured. 

IOWA. 

In Allamakee County, the northeastern part of the State, a gradual 
improvement in the milch stock is apparent from the recent infusion of 
fashionable blood. Pastures were never better, supply of milk abun- 
dant, yet low prices compelled farmers to discontinue the dairy business. 

In Appanoose County, southern part of the State, pastures were very 
ehort all the season. Beef production rather than milk is the object of 
farmers. Cows, owing to neglect in wintering, yield moderate quanti- 
ties of milk. 

In Bremer County, northeastern part of the State, cultivated grasses 
form the pasturage, the wild grasses having nearly disappeared. The 
climate, on account of the extremes of heat in summer and cold in 
winter, is unfavorable to best results in dairying. The cows are a mix- 
ture of Short-horn and native, with some Holstein blood. Wintering- 
of stock varies as much as climate. As enabled to do so, farmers are 
preparing warm quarters for their milch cows. 

Buchanan County, in the eastern part of the State, reports butter 
lower than for many years. Milk did not produce as much -butter the 
past season as usual, owing to excessively wet weather. The pasturage 
is clover, timothy, and blue grass. Cows, grade Short-horns, are well 
wintered in warm stables and fed upon timothy and clover hay and 
grain. Climate good and water very pure. 

Bnena Vista County, in the northwestern section, shows poorer 
quality of milk, with corresponding reduction in cream. Cows yielded 
2 per cent, less per head than the previous year, caused by having been 
badly wintered and being in poor condition when turned to grass in the 
spring. Excess of rain early in the season caused rank growth of 
grasses deficient in good milk properties. Yield poorer than for five 
seasons. 

Butler County, in the north, has pastures consisting of timothy, red 
and white clover, and some wild grasses. The climate is excellent from 
May to November. Winters very severe. Cows, grade Shorthorns, 
which are well wintered. 

Cass County, in the southwestern part of the State, reports dairying 
to be a new business in that section. Pastures good, of tame grasses. 
Cows, grade Short-horns. Manner of wintering bad, owing principally 
to inadequate shelter. 



13 

Cedar GouDty, in the east, has excellent pastures, chiefly of blue 
grass. The climate is very warm in summer, and extremely cold in 
winter. Cows are stabled and supplied with a liberal feeding of corn- 
meal, wheat-bran and hay. High-grade Short-horns prevail. 

Cerro Gordo County, in the north, has both wild and tame pastures. 
Climate and water good for the production of butter. Stock ordinary, 
with some few grade Short-horns. After July 15, wheu the grass be- 
gins to fail, many feed sweet corn to their cows once a day, by which 
the flow of milk is prolonged. Cows are better wintered than formerly, 
receiving clover hay, corn and oat meal. 

Cherokee County, in the northwestern section, heretofore devoted 
exclusively to stock raising, is fast being converted to dairying. Pas- 
tures, however, are not yet much sown with cultivated grasses. Dairy 
management is improving every year, the stock employed being graded 
with milking strains. 

In Chickasaw County, northeastern part of the State, pastures of 
timothy and clover abound. The past five years have shown great im- 
provement in dairy animals. The cold wet seasons of spring and 
fall affeet the yield of butter, especially if cows have been badly win- 
tered. When housed at night and fed upon bay and grain, the supply 
of milk is continued during winter. 

In Clay County, northwestern section, dairies are operated in sum- 
mer only. Pasturage mostly of wild grass. Cows range at large. 

In Clayton County, northeastern section, the pastures are represented 
to be very fine, being composed of blue grass, white clover, &c. Climate 
good. Cows grades, but rather inferior. They are poorly wintered, re- 
ceiving no grain. Farmers of late are making improvements. 

Dallas County, in the central portion of the State, has a cool climate 
admirable for butter makiug. 

Delaware County, in the east, has pasture chiefly of tame grasses. 
Cows are high grades, and since the introduction of dairying have re- 
ceived more attention. In winter they are kept in good barns, with 
plenty of hay, fodder, corn-meal, bran, middlings, pumpkins, and roots* 

Dubuque County, in the eastern section, is well adapted for dairying. 
Creameries are doing a fair business. 

Floyd County, in the north, has good pastures, and all the conditions 
for successful dairying exist, with the exception of the severity of the 
winters. Good barns and feed for the cows during winter render them 
more profitable than during summer. Another portion of this county 
is represented as possessing excellent pasturage, although the past 
season was rather wet. Dairying has rapidly increased the past four 
years. 

In Greene County, the central part of the State, the butter properties 
of the milk were less than usual, on account of a wet season. Farmers, 
too, are careless handlers of milk. Cows mostly natives, but grade 



14 

Short-horns are being introduced. The better the breed of cattle, the 
more care is given them in winter. 

Guthrie County, in the west, has a good climate and pasturage, but 
the stock is common and wintered very indifferently, making the re- 
turns very meager. 

In Hardin County, the central portion of the State, pastures of ex- 
cellent quality prevail, being composed of all the cultivated grasses. 
The climate is good, although the winters are rather severe. Good 
stabling, however, is beginning to show its effects upon the cattle. The 
stock has heretofore been bred more for beef than milk purposes. High- 
grade Jerseys, Short-horns, and Holsteins are now being used and are 
rapidly growing into favor. Scalded mill feed is considered to be pro- 
motive of an increased flow of milk. Some parts of this county are low 
and wet, consequently unsuited for rich milk yields. 

In Humboldt County, to the north, pasturage was good all the season. 
Climate excellent in summer for butter-making, but cows aie wintered 
mostly at large, consequently not so productive. Grade Short-horns 
prevail. 

In Jasper County, central part of the State, pastures are of various 
kinds of wild and tame grasses. Cows do well and yield well upon the 
mixed grasses and are more regular in their flow of milk. They are 
well stabled and fed in winter. The making of cheese is receiving at- 
tention in this section, farmers beginning to see that there is money in 
cheese-making. 

In Jefferson County, southeast, dairy interests are increasing. Pas- 
tures, however, are wild prairie-grass, which dries up in August. Cli- 
mate rather unpropitious for dairying. Native cows are the chief 
reliance. 

In Jones County, eastern part of the State, the pasturage was good ; 
a wet season, however, depreciated the quality of the milk. Cows are 
of mixed breeds, principally native and Shore-horn, and as a general 
thing are badly wintered. 

In Keokuk County, southeastern part of the State, pastures are 
mostly of wild grasses. Cows run on meadows in the fall. In winter 
they are fed on clover and timothy hay, with ground corn and oats, and 
kept in good barns. Water excellent and abundant. 

In Kossuth County, northern part of State, pastures are of wild 
grasses. The season for pasturage is short, consequently the yield per 
cow is light. 

Linn County, eastern part of the State, reports pastures excellent, 
timothy, clover, and blue grass abounding. Cows are well wintered on 
corn, oats, chopped wheat, bran, and hay. Stock mostly grade Short- 
horns, with some few Jerseys and Holsteins. Climate favorable for 
dairying. 

Marshall County, central part of State, has pastures mostly of timo- 
thy, with a small proportion of clover, which is considered worth 25 per 



15 

cent, more than timothy for pasturage, as it comes earlier and does not 
dry up so soon ; holds its own till snow covers it ; produces more ami 
richer milk, and imparts a more desirable flavor to butter. 

Monona County, western part of the State. This county is not favor- 
able for summer dairying, on account of flies and hot weather. Winter 
dairying more promising. The pasturage consists of cultivated grasses. 

Plymouth County, northwestern part of the State. Dairying re- 
ceives little attention, on account of poor, wild pastures, which start 
late and dry up early. Climate excellent; falls and winters dry and 
favorable for stock. Short-horns, Holsteins, and natives prevail, 
though mostly the last named. Cows not much cared for in winter. 
Farmers, however, are beginning to provide shelter for their animals. 

Pocahontas County, northwestern part of the State. Season uncom- 
monly wet ; milk poor. Climate adapted to successful dairying, warm 
days producing nutritious forage, and cool nights causing milk to keep 
in good condition to be used next day. Grade Shorthorn cows are 
given the preference for dairying and stock-raising combined. They 
are housed, and well fed on hay and grain. 

Story County, central part of the State, is a line dairy district, but 
the discouragements to dairying the past year have materially checked 
the business. 

Yama County, central part of State. Pasturage good; too wet, how- 
ever, for rich milk. Cows are grade Short-horns and well wintered. 

Van Buren County, southeastern part of the State. Pastures poor r 
caused by dry weather and grasshoppers. Creamery interests fast 
waning on account of inadequate prices. Cows have depreciated in 
value $10 per head. 

Washington County, southeastern part of the State. " The creamery 
business has heretofore been considered the best enterprise that could 
be engaged in here, but the general depression of the business has re- 
duced the price to patrons for their cream below remuneration. This 
is a good grass country, fine climate, and choice cows." 

Warren County, southern part of the State. Pastures bountifully 
supplied with various grasses all the season. Cows largely of grade 
Short-horns with some Holsteins. Dry cows are nearly always win- 
tered in stalk fields, and consequently in poor condition in the spring. 
Winters severe. Dairying is considered one of the most inviting and 
remunerative industries of farm life. 

Webster County, central part of the State. Pastures too rank on 
account of rain. Climate good and healthy for cows, although these 
are generally poor, having to graze on overstocked pastures. No shelter 
and no grain in winter. 

Wright County, northern part of the State. Poor pastures, wild 
grasses. Stock mixed breeds, wintered in open yards. Winter dairy- 
ing not pursued. 



16 

KANSAS. 

Barton County, central part of the State. Pasturage of blue grass. 
Winter feed, millet, sorghum, and corn fodder. Winters mild and dry. 
Cows of the native breed. 

Cloud County, northern part of the State. Dairying has received less 
attention than other branches of agriculture. Lands are cheap; like- 
wise grain, mill-feed, and transportation. Climate good, pasturage ex- 
cellent, and markets favorable for this important but much neglected 
industry. The wild grasses, during their season, produce an excellent 
quality of butter. Tame grasses flourish here as well as in other places. 
As a general thing, little attention is given to breeding cows for milk 
and butter purposes, and cattle generally have insufficient shelter in 
winter. 

Ellsworth County, central part of the State. Dairy interests are ad- 
vancing. Pastures are of wild prairie-grass. Cows grade Short-horns, 
stabled in bad weather, and fed upon corn meal, bran, millet, and sor- 
ghum. Sudden changes from heat to cold affect the yield of milk. 

Jefferson County, northeastern part of the State. Pastures of tim- 
othy and clover. Cows grade Jerseys, whose milk produces a very firm 
butter that will stand the heat of summer. 

Leavenworth Comity, northeastern part of the State. Farmers are 
preparing for the dairy business by sowing timothy and clover. ' Many 
will engage in the business in 1886. The climate is suitable for dairy- 
ing. 

Morris County, eastern part of the State. Pastures of native grass. 
Stock grade Short-horns. Good facilities for taking care of milk. 

Nemaha County, northeastern part of the State. Pasturage prairie- 
grass. Climate excellent, and very favorable to good milk yields. 
Stock improving in character and increasing in number. Good shelter 
is being provided for cows, and better food given them. 

Osborne County, northern part of the State. Pastures equally di- 
vided between blue and buffalo grass. Climate good for dairying but 
almost too hot for cheese-making. 

Phillips County, northern part of the State. Pastures good and 
prices of feed low. Butter can be produced here at less cost than else- 
where. Cows give very rich milk; some, very large quantities. Milk 
averages richer than in the Eastern States. Denver is considered a 
better market for butter than New York City. 

Biley County, northeastern part of the State. Cows range upon hill 
pastures and are wintered upon corn-fodder, &c. Stock grade Short- 
horns. 

Bussell County, central part of State. Pastures native prairie and 
buffalo grass. Climate good. Cattle grades. Not enough care given 
to cows in winter, although some few feed them in winter on prairie- 
hay, millet, corn fodder, and grain. 



17 

Bush County, ceutral part of the State. Pastures of buffalo grass, 
which enriches the milk. Climate very warm, ranging from 100° to 
114°. Stock mixed somewhat with Short-horn blood. For cheese-mak- 
ing the milk here is peculiarly adapted, being well flavored and very 
rich. The curd, however, has to be cooked a longer tiuie than usual in 
the East, to insure the cheese to keep. 

Sedgwick County, southern part of the State. Stock descended from 
Devous crossed with Short horns. Heretofore cows have been wintered 
outdoors ; latterly they are stabled, and fed upon wild hay, corn fod- 
der, and sorghum. 

Smith County, northern part of the State. Pasturage is entirely of 
wild grasses, which fail by August 15. Although cheese-making is 
followed, farmers do not realize the importance of having their cows 
well fed in the fall months. The absence of springs requires the use 
of wells for cooling purposes ; much milk, therefore, becomes sour or 
tainted. Cows are of common stock, and not well cared for in winter. 

Trego Couuty, western part of the State. Pastures entirely of buffalo 
grass, summer and winter. In this section grass will produce more 
butter or cheese than any other feed. 

Wabaunsee County, eastern part of the State. Pasture season short, 
as the prairie grass dries up early in the fall. Climate good. Cows in- 
different and poorly wintered. Plenty of feed, but no stables. 

MAINE. 

This State, whose people are largely engaged in dairy husbandry, 
furnishes quite a creditable and promising condition of the business. 

Androscoggin County, southwestern part of the State, possesses good 
pastures and good stock. Cheese factories are being changed to butter 
factories, promising better returns with less labor. Associated dairy- 
ing is receiving considerable attention. Pasturage generally good, 
with pure water, and production quite up to the average. The cows 
of this county are largely infused with Jersey, Hereford, and Short- 
horn blood. They are well stabled and cared for, and are fed princi- 
pally on good hay, bran, corn, and cotton-seed meal. The climate is 
favorable to milk production. 

In some parts 'of this county, however, the surface is rocky, but the 
feed, though scanty, is very sweet and productive of excellent butter. 
Preparations are being made for the winter care of stock in providing 
good shelter and generous food, ensilage forming a large proportion. 

Aroostook County, northern part of the State, reports pasturage 
good, consisting of herd's-grass (synonymous in New England with tim- 
othy), red, white, and alsike clover, with wild grasses. Although the 
climate, pasturage, and water are very good for dairying, yet the yield 
of milk is small, owing to the cows being poorly wintered. In some parts 
of this county the pasturage is usually very superior, owing to the calca- 
reous character of the soil. It was shortened, however, the past season 
6033 D 2 



18 

by drought in the fall. The high latitude and cool nights here are very 
favorable for dairying, not being excessively hot in summer, aud beiug 
very dry in winter. With use of barns cattle are wintered as cheaply 
as in southern localities. Cows are grades of the different imported 
breeds. Oleomargarine affects prices of dairy products, although none 
is manufactured or introduced. In another part of the county pas- 
tures of nutritious grasses usually abound, but, owing to the coldness 
aud backwardness of last spring, grass started slowly; it was also se- 
riously affected by drought the latter part of the season, causing a 
great shrinkage of milk. Grades of Jersey, Hereford, Short-horn, and 
Holstein cattle prevail, but cows are not always well wintered. In this 
particular farmers begin to see the necessity for improvement. 

Kennebec County, southern part of the State, is credited with few 
cows j cheese-making, therefore, is not a very successful business. Al- 
though pasturage is good, dairying is secondary to general farming 
pursuits. The climate is excellent, yet severe in winter. Feeding with 
ensilage has not yet been introduced. In part of this county the pas- 
tures are confined to the roughest land, aud the season for dairying is 
only five months long. Cows are grade Jerseys, Herefords, and Short- 
horns, the last constituting a little more than one-third of the whole 
number. They are wintered on corn fodder, hay, aud straw, few re- 
ceiving any grain. 

In Penobscot Count3 T , central part of the State, pastures and water 
are reported to be very good, soil sandy and gravelly. Cows are largely 
infused with Jersey, Short-horn, and Holstein blood. Many pure- 
bred Jerseys are owned here and are considered to make more and 
better cheese from the same quantity of milk. Cows are wintered on 
hay and mixed grasses, such as June grass, red-top, white clover, &c, 
with little grain. Dairying is on the increase, aud bids fair to become 
the leading pursuit of farmers. 

Somerset Count} T , central part of the State, is considered well adapted 
to dairying and the industry is rapidly increasing. The pastures pro- 
duce the best grasses and abound in springs of pure water. Jersey 
cows have the preference and are fast supplanting the other breeds. 
Winter dairying is becoming more popular and many factories run the 
entire year. The butter from this section competes well with "West- 
ern " in the Boston market, and pays well in winter. 

In Washington County, eastern part of the State, the pastures are 
very rough and uncultivated. The cows are mostly of Jersey blood. 

MARYLAND. 

Maryland returns are chiefly from Harford County, northeastern part 
of the State, where fertile soil and good pastures of timothy aud clover 
abound, with numerous springs of pure cold water. Cows are well fed ; 
in summer upon one quart of grain night and morning, in addition to 
good pasturage ; in winter upon good hay, corn fodder, wheat-bran, 



19 

and grain, being well stabled and allowed sufficient exercise iu yards. 
The milking stock comprises Holsteins, Jerseys, and Short-horns, prin- 
cipally the last named. For three preceding years one proprietor has 
realized $100 per cow for the year iu butter. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

Returns from this State are very meager. Worcester County, cen- 
tral part of the State, reports three successive dry seasons, causing 
great scarcity of feed both summer and winter, and a consequent want 
of condition in the cows. The high price of labor and low price of 
dairy products additionally had a depressing effect upon dairy industry. 

MICHIGAN. 

.Clinton County, central part of the State, represents pasturage as 
unusually good, but for the making of cheese more milk was required 
to the pound. The maiket likewise was lower than the previous year. 

Emmet County, northern part of the State, abounds in wild native 
grasses, which produce an article of butter of great excellence, selling 
in New York City for the highest price. The cows are natives; occa- 
sionally Short-horn grades are met with, and they are wintered upon 
wild prairie-hay. 

Genesee County, eastern part of the State, is classed as a fine dairy 
regiou, with plenty of good water from flowing wells. The climate is 
mild. Grade cattle prevail, chiefly of Holsteiu paternity. 

In Ingham County, southern part of the State, pasturage aud climate 
are represented as very good ; cows of Holsteiu and Short-horn grades, 
and well wintered on hay, fodder, and grain. All the conditions requi- 
site for successful dairying exist iu this county. Its natural advantages 
cannot be surpassed East or West. Capital and energy are alone needed 
to push the dairy industry to the front. 

Lenawee County, southeastern part of the State. u Lighter exports 
and less home consumption have caused a depression in the dairy busi- 
ness here, and consequent low prices. Many are so discouraged that 
they are selling their cows." 

Ottawa County, western part of the State, is a section where small 
farms are the rule, and inconsequence scant pasturage prevails. The 
summer of 1885 was marked by irequent changes of the weather, which 
had an injurious effect upon dairying. The character of the cows like- 
wise tended to lessen the outcome, being chiefly natives, with an occa- 
sional cross with Holsteiu aud Short-horn breeds. Great care is taken 
to provide food and shelter in winter. 

Shiawassee County, central part of the State, reports pasturage of 
timothy and June grass, with very little clover. Cows are wintered on 
timothy hay, with some meal, potatoes, roots, straw, and corn fodder. 

Saint Clair County, eastern part of the State, is subject to long, cold, 
and severe winter weather, which requires cows to be stabled and well 



20 

fed six months of the year. Grade Short-horn cows are chiefly em- 
ployed in the dairy business. 

In Van Buren County, southwestern part of the State, the pasture 
range is rolling. Climate is spoken of as very good for manufacturing 
and curing cheese. Cows are grade Holsteins and Devons. In the 
neighborhood of Bloomingdale, in this county, one correspondent rep- 
resents pasturage in 1885 to have been excellent and the season unusu- 
ally favorable to the manufacture of full cream cheese. Cows are 
highly graded, well sheltered in winter, and fed upon good hay. 

Wayne County, southeastern part of the State, possesses fine milch 
cows, principally grade Short horns. Corn is considered the most profit, 
able crop for dairymen. Corn fodder constitutes a large part of the 
winter feed, and is also used to supplement the deficiency of scaut past- 
urage in midsummer. 

The best winter feed for cows in milk is thought to be one part corn- 
meal to three parts of wheat-bran, by measure; the ration per cow, 
three quarts of the mixture twice a day. 

MINNESOTA. 

Big Stone County, in the western part of the State, is mostly a prai- 
rie region and the pasturage is of wild«grass. Last season was a very 
dry one. The climate is well adapted to dairying. Cows are princi- 
pally grade Short horns. A few Holsteins have lately been introduced 
as well as Polled Angus. The severity of the winter has induced the 
building of basement stables for the protection of cattle. Prospects 
for dairying are favorable to an increase of the business. 

Brown County, southern part of the State, has x>astures composed 
mostly of wild grasses. The dairy business is in an unsettled condition, 
owing to the indifference of farmers aud the poor character of their 
cows. 

In Cottonwood County, southwestern part of the State, pastures con. 
sist principally of native blue-joint grass. Owing to coolness of the 
climate, creameries and dairies make a fine quality of goods. Cows are 
comfortably housed in winter, and are fed almost entirely on hay made 
of native wild grass. They are probably three-fourths native, but better 
breeds are being introduced, mostly Short-horns, with some Jerseys 
and Holsteins. One correspondent from this county says: " Cows pick 
their own living about five months in the year, and must be fed high 
the seven remaining months in order to produce good results. I feed 
each cow during the winter about twelve pounds a day of ground oats 
and wheat middlings, mixed equally with all the timothy and clover 
she will eat. This produces an equal amount of butter to summer past- 
urage." 

Dodge County, southeastern part of the State. The grass of this 
locality is considered very superior. Although the long winters require 
cattle to be fed a greater length of time than in more southern locali- 



21 

ties, the cheapness and excellence of hay and other feed, the soil being 
exceedingly rich and productive, more than compensate for the extra 
winter feeding. It is generally supposed that all cows require to be 
well stabled in winter in this State ; but such is not the case, as many 
are kept at straw-ricks with three ears of corn each every day, upon 
which they do well. 

Fillmore County, southeastern part of the State. In this county, not- 
withstanding the very favorable conditions of climate, water, pasturage, 
and good cows, dairying presents a discouraging aspect, on account of 
low prices produced by competition with bogus productions, as well as 
the falling off in the export trade. It is feared that the uumber of 
milkers will have to be reduced to prevent excess of manufacture. 

Freeborn County, southern part of the State, possesses stock of an 
inferior kind, fed only upon pasturage of wild grass and wintered upon 
wild hay, consequently no very flattering returns are received from this 
section. 

Jackson County, southwestern part of the State, is reputed to be as 
favorable a section as any in the country for the prosecution of dairy- 
ing, on account of the exceeding excellence of both water and climate, 
although at present the pasturage consists of wild grass alone, which is 
very much injured by early frosts. The introduction of cultivated 
grasses and the prosecution of winter dairying, will work a beneficial 
change throughout this northern region, as the scarcity of labor mate- 
rially interferes with the work of harvesting and dairying at the same 
period. In winter, undivided attention can be given to the cows and 
the dairy, when better prices will reward the farmers. 

Lyon County, southwestern part of the State, is a prairie section with 
pastures of wild grass. The climate is favorable for dairying. Cows 
are grade Short-horns and Jerseys. Some farmers pursue winter 
dairying and feed heavily of grain. Oleomargarine reduces the price 
of winter butter 10 cents per pound. 

Martin County, southern part of the State. The pasturage of this 
county also consists of wild grasses, and the cows are wintered prin- 
cipally upon hay made from the same, with the addition of corn-stalk 
fodder. The yield of milk rapidly decreases during August, and the 
cows remain comparatively dry until the following spring. The low 
price of butter is rather discouraging to dairymen. 

In Stearns County, central part of the State, the pasturage was ex- 
ceedingly poor. Cows were very much pestered by hies and gnats. 
The climate is unsurpassed for winter dairying, and it is believed that 
butter of richer flavor and cheese of greater body can be produced here 
than in any other section of the country. Cows are grade Jerseys, 
which give the most milk the year round. 

Steele County, southern part of the State, is represented to be a fine 
dairy county, but the number ot cows is limited. The increasing inter- 



22 

-est in dairying, with fine pasturage and excellent barns, will insure a 
supply of cows adequate to the successful prosecution of the business. 
Watouwan County, southern part of State, is a great dairy region, 
and has made great progress in the last three years. The pasturage is 
rich, and yields abundantly. There are some Jersey and Short-horn 
cows, but natives prevail. These are all wintered on hay, and have 
good shelter, straw sheds or stables. Low prices and competition with 
buttering threaten the withdrawal of farmers from dairying and their 
engaging in general stock-raising. 

MISSOURI. • 

Andrew County, northwestern part of the State, has a climate very 
favorable for dairying, but overstocking of pastures shortened the sum- 
mer feed. As very little shelter is provided for cows during winter, 
they fail in milk, being fed only upon hay and shock-fodder. The use 
of mill-feed greatly increased the yield of milk. Native cows are grades 
of Holsteins. The weather from Jauuary 1 to April 1 is very severe, 
which greatly impairs the value of cows running at large. 

Audrain County, central part of the State, abounds in blue grass 
pastures, upon which cows are kept all the season. The use of mill- 
feed twice a day insures a large, flow of milk. Short-horn cows are 
numerous, and are found to give a larger return of milk thau any others 
in that section. 

Boone County, central part of the State, possesses a climate and soil 
admirably adapted for associated dairying. The blue-grass pastures of 
this section afford sweet food for cows, producing butter of good color 
and aroma. The scarcity of men proficient in the management of 
creameries has been the cause of a decrease in the business. Good 
shelter, with care in feeding cows and handling milk, will eventually 
give success. 

Caldwell County, northwestern part of the State, is represented to 
be an excellent dairy section on account of the pasturage and of the 
climate. Winter dairying is considered most profitable. Cows are be- 
ing graded with Holstein. 

Callaway County, central part of the State, abounds in blue-grass 
pasturage. The climate is mild and very good for dairying. Grade 
Short-horns have been the chief reliance for milch cows, but a recent 
importation of Holsteins is expected to iucrease the milk production. 
Winter feed consists of corn, oats, bran, hay, ship-stuff, and sorghum. 

Sorghum is considered very valuable. One proprietor uses for 80 
head, 2,000 pounds of sorghum, 600 pounds of meal, and 400 pounds of 
brau a day, with all the grass they will eat. He stables his cows from 
October 20 to May 1. Ab««ut February, when sorghum is exhausted, 
he substitutes sheaf-oats. His aim is to keep a uniform supply of milk 



23 

from September 1 to June. He prefers to have cows fresh in Septem- 
ber, November, and February. 

Jackson County, western part of the State, abounds in blue-grass 
pastures, affording the best of feed from May to November. During 
the winter months those pursuing winter dairying employ prairie-hay, 
16 pounds to the ration, with 4 gallons of bran pea* cow per dayj keep- 
ing the cows well stabled and bedded, and giving exercise in good 
weather, with an abundant supply of pure water. 

Jefferson County, eastern part of the State, has pastures of blue 
grass, orchard grass, and clover. Failure of grass in dry seasons com- 
pels the use of bran. Those who stable cows feed generally upon oats, 
hay, and corn. A great many cows, however, receive no shelter and 
are consequently unprofitable. Better cows and better attention would 
insure better success. The cov/s, as a general thing, are not first-class. 

La Fayette County, western part of the State. The conditions for 
dairying, in respect of soil, climate, and pasturage, are to be found in 
this county, but the poor character of cows, want of shelter, and igno- 
rance of the business operate to its disadvantage. Grade Short-horns 
constitute the dairy stock of the county. 

Macon County, northern part of the State, is said to be a fine dairy 
section, but as yet dairying is in its infancy. All kiuds of grasses grow 
luxuriantly, also corn and oats. Drought and grasshoppers were very 
injurious to the crops last season. Cows are of all breeds, from common 
to pure bred Short-horns, but are wintered very badly, "frequently 
under the south side of a hedge or barbed-wire fence/' 

Madison County, southeastern part of the State. The climate here is 
very favorable for dairying, especially during winter, but cattle run at 
large in the stalk fields, with some hay thrown to them occasionally. 
Good pasturage is to be found from 1st of May to 15th of November. 
Short-horns are crossed with natives, making a very thrifty and profit- 
able character of stock. 

Mercer County, northern part of the State. Pasturage here was 
ruined by grasshoppers and drought. Although the climate in winter 
is very severe, cattle are seldom stabled, consequently they make small 
returns. 

Moniteau County, lying in the central part of the State, has excel- 
lent pasturage, but dairying seems to be in its infancy; good shelter, 
good cows, and good management are the needed requisites for success. 

Saline County, central part of the State, indicates a prosperous con- 
dition of dairying, having good pasturage of timothy, blue grass, and 
clover, with a favorable climate. Holstein and Short-horn cows, good 
barns and stables, with plenty of corn and hay, give promise of success. 

Scotland County, northeastern part of the State, reports an unsatis- 
factory outcome in the dairy business last season, which has greatly 
discouraged farmers. Pastures were injured by grasshoppers, and low 
prices depressed the business. 



24 

MONTANA TERRITORY. 

From this Territory reports indicate excellent pasturage during sum- 
mer, but the severity of the winter requires stock to be well housed 
and fed. 

In Meagher County, central part of the Territory, the pasturage is 
confined to the mountain range and is of the finest quality, stock keep- 
ing fat on it all winter. Very little dairying is done in winter. Short- 
horn cattle prevail. i 

NEBRASKA. 

Dodge County, eastern part of the State, is a section still abounding 
in wild grass. Cultivated grasses are being introduced, and dairying, 
which is now a new business, is expected to make rapid advancement. 
A correspondent from this county speaks of the competition of oleomar- 
garine, and advocates the passage of a law requiring it to be colored 
pink. 

Furnas County, southern part of the State, reports that a great 
quantity of bogus butter is sold in that section ; much of it to country 
dealers, under the name of " Young America." In the far west, where 
labor is scarce and dairying expensive, the reduced price occasioned by 
competition with imitation products greats discourages the farming 
community. 

The farmers of Gage County, southeastern part of the State, confi- 
dently expect their section to lead in a few years in the production of 
dairy articles, especially butter, as is indicated by the rapid improve- 
ment of pastures, stock, and appliances for dairying. 

Holt County, northern part of the State, has a good climate, but be- 
ing a new country — not more than ten years settled, wild grasses alone 
abound. Yeiy r little improvement has been made in the milch stock. 
It required a larger quantity of milk per pound of butter than in pre- 
vious years. 

Jefferson County, southeastern part of the State, abounds in wild 
prairie-grass, good from May 1 to October 1. Cows have to be grain 
fed in winter to insure a good flow of milk. Oleomargarine is con- 
sidered to lower the price of genuine butter from 10 to 15 cents a pound. 

In Lancaster and Washington Counties, eastern part of the State, 
farmers, from scarcity of help, are disincliued to enter into dairying, 
although possessing good .pastures and good cows. 

NEW YORK. 

In Allegany County, southeastern part of the State, pasturage was 
fair, with the yield of milk about an average with previous years. Cli- 
mate favorable for dairying. Cows of good quality and producing ex- 
cellent milk. They are wintered on hay, and well stabled. Pasturage 
is available about May 10, but dries up in September, when the feed 
has to be supplemented by corn fodder. In winter the cows receive 



25 

clover and timothy hay, with the addition of corn and oats ground to- 
gether. Dairying is here the main dependence of the farmer. 

Broome County, southern part of the State, ranks with the best in 
respect of its pastures, which are on rolling land and entirely free of 
garlic. The soil is good and abounds in the purest water, so essential 
to good butter and cheese. The climate also is very uniform. The but- 
ter made in this section brings the highest prices, and is greatly sought 
after. The cows are grades of native, Short-horn, Jersey, and Devon 
breeds. 

Cattaraugus County, southwestern part of the State, is well adapted 
to dairying on account of climate, pasturage, and abundance of water. 
The low prices of dairy products, from whatsoever cause attributable, 
greatly discourages dairymen, and many will be compelled to retire 
from the business. Cows are grade Ayrshire and Short-horns. 

Chautauqua County, southwestern part of the State, is largely de- 
voted to dairying. The excessively wet and cold season injured the 
pasturage, which consists mainly of white clover. The flow of milk 
was large, yet of such a quality as to require a greater quantity to the 
pound of butter or cheese. The season was one of great disaster to 
dairymen, as prices were lower than for ten years. Cows are grades of 
all the improved breeds. In many places Short-horn grades are pre- 
ferred. Holsteins are unpopular, being very coarse and not profitably 
turned into beef. Stock usually stabled and fed upon hay. The part 
of the county lying along Lake Erie is not suitable for dairying, on ac- 
count of coarse feed and poor supply of spring water. Seven or eight miles 
from the Lake there is great improvement. In some parts of the county 
the severe winter affected the condition of the cows, so that they were 
very poor iu spring. A shrinkage of milk in August was caused by- 
grasshoppers injuring the pasturage. 

Chenango County, central part of the State, is possessed of excellent 
cool spring water, requiring no ice. Climate clear and cold. Pastur- 
age of timothy, red top, white, and red clover. In some parts pas- 
tures are of natural grasses, free of weeds, and very desirable for 
uniformity and excellence of products. The whole county is a dairy 
section, and dairying is the only business that farmers can pursue with 
advantage. The factory system prevails, and the season continues from 
May 1 to November 1. Very little butter is made in winter. Last sea- 
son was particularly disastrous to farmers, the low price of milk caus- 
ing general depresssion of business and consequent depreciation in 
value of property. In some parts of this county the pasturage was 
not as good as usual, owing to droughts of the two previous seasons, 
followed by dearth of snow and consequent freezing out of grass roots. 
Corn fodder is used in August and September to supplement scarcity 
of pasturage. Cows receive hay and roots, when fresh, with bran till 
in full milk, then corn-meal, oil-meal, or wheat middlings, as judgment 
of dairymen dictates. Winters are very long. Cows stabled in base- 



26 

merit of barns from November 1 to middle of May. All the improved 
breeds of cattle prevail, and one herd of pure bred Guernseys is re- 
ported in the county. 

Clinton County, northeastern part of the State, suffered from drought 
in the early part of the season, shortening the pasturage and lessening 
the dairy products. Cows are of mixed breed, some few Holsteins be- 
ing introduced. The climate of this high latitude is very severe, yet 
cows have very little grain in winter, being fed principally on hay and 
straw. Pastures are of timothy and clover. 

Cortland County, central part of the State. The climate of this 
county is very good for dairying, but reports vary concerning the 
method of feeding and wintering stock, some receiving little care or at- 
tention, others being warmly housed and well fed on hay and mill-feed. 
Pasturage was abundant owing to the wet season, and the yield of 
milk large. Stock consists largely of Ayrshire grades and a few 
crosses of Short-horns and Jerseys. A herd of Devon cattle of great ex- 
cellence is owned in this county. 

Delaware County, southeastern part of the State, is considered to be 
a good grazing section, the natural grasses sufficing for cows, unless 
drought at close of season should require the use of corn fodder, which 
is generally provided. Butter-making does not begin until March, 
cows being well wintered on hay and grain. The climate is quite cold, 

Franklin County, northeastern part of the State, is noted for hilly 
pastures, producing good feed for milk and butter. Spring brooks 
abound. The climate is temperate, though very cold in winter. Cows 
are of all breeds, with many full blood Jerseys, Holsteins, and Ayr- 
shires. Grade animals are preferred. They are generally well stabled 
and fed with grain in winter, although many think that grain is thus 
thrown away. Low prices have greatly depressed the dairy industry. 

Erie County, western part of the State, also represents dairying to 
be at a discount, owing to low prices of butter, occasioned by competi- 
tion with spurious substitutes. 

Fulton County, eastern part of the State, is well adapted for dairying 
as respects good water and good pastures, but dairymen are greatly dis- 
couraged in consequence of low prices. Moreover, the cold and wet 
spring tended to lessen the yield of milk. 

Genesee County, western part of the State, makes dairying secondary 
to grain raising. Cows, therefore, receive less attention than they do 
in exclusively dairy sections. Pasturage is very good, but water is in- 
sufficient for best results. 

In Herkimer County, northern part of the State, poor pastures and 
light hay crops, resulting from drought the previous fall, diminished 
dairy productions. It is necessary here to feed cows six months in the 
year, and to house them in warm barns, in order to have them yield a 
remunerative supply of milk the following season. Shipstuff and corn- 
meal are euiphrved in winter- feeding with hay and shock -fodder. The 



27 

soil of this county is not particularly adapted to good grazing, being in 
many parts loamy and sandy, and in others too wet and clayey. 
Droughts affect such soils very much. This county is thought to be 
better adapted for grain-raising than dairying. 

Jefferson County, northern part of the State, reports an abundant 
rainfall the past season, affording good pasturage. Cows are natives, 
with a mixture of Ayrshire and Hoistein blood, and are wintered prin- 
cipally on hay, with the addition, towards spring, of corn, oat, or barley 
meal. In one section of this county, from the quick and tender growth 
of the grass, it took a larger quantity of milk to the pound of cheese 
than for years. The market for cheese has been nearly lifeless, proba- 
bly from overproduction and light foreign demand. 

Lewis County, northern part of the State, is represented to be a good 
dairy section, with pastures of timothy, clover, June and quack grass, 
and, on lowlands subject to overflow, very luxuriant red-top grass. 
Some farmers feed green fodder after August. Pasturage last season, 
from wet weather, was too watery for good dairy products. Springs of 
pure water abound, and the climate is excellent for butter and cheese 
making. Cows, which consist of grades of all the improved breeds, are 
well wintered in comfortable barns, and fed upon hay and straw until 
time of calving, when they receive an allowance of meal and sour milk 
in addition. 

Madison County, central part of the State, has upland pastures of 
good grasses, but excessive rain in one locality is said to have impaired, 
and drought in another to have reduced, dairy products. The low 
prices of butter and cheese did not warrant extra care or feeding of 
cows. Many full-blood Holsteins are owned, and some Holderness, but 
grades of Ayrshire more largely prevail. Jersey and Guernsey herds 
are also to be found, but they are not exclusively employed in the dairy. 
One correspondent from this county does not think the competition 
with oleomargarine disadvantageous, because it furnishes a market for 
creamery butter, and only affects the common grades of butter. 

Montgomen^ County, eastern part of the State, is one of the oldest 
dairying sections, cheese-making being the principal business. The 
pastures are hilly, not subject to drought, quite luxuriant, and not 
affected by excess of rain. The soil is fertile, and produces bountiful 
harvests. The barns are large and comfortable, with warm stone base- 
ments. Hoistein and Jersey cattle are numerous, the former preferred. 
Last season was cool and rainy; milk not as rich as usual. Pasturage 
of natural grasses, and great abundance of pure spring water. The 
cheese manufactured was never better. No silos have yet been built. 
Cows are given corn, oat-meal with wheat offal, and sometimes flax-seed 
meal. 

Oneida County, central part of the State, is devoted wholly to dairy- 
ing, the hills being allotted to pasturage, and the lowlands to meadows. 
An abundance of spring water is available. Native cows abound, 



28 

although some of improved breeds are to be found. Hay is the staple 
provender in winter. Ensilage is used by some farmers. The long and 
severe winters are objectionable. Strong feeding in spring is usual to 
bring the cows into good milking condition, and for this purpose one 
correspondent gives a ration of buckwheat and oats, in equal parts, 
ground together, as the result of twenty-five years' experience in feed- 
ing. The cold, wet season was unfavorable to cheese-making, and in 
one section the cheese made in July was of bad flavor. Grade Ayr- 
shire and Holstein cows are to be found in some parts of the county. 
It is said to take 4 acres of pasture for a cow in summer, and about 2£ 
tons of hay, with some meal, for a cow in winter. The branding of 
cheese, according to the new law, proves satisfactory. 

Onondaga County, central part of the State, is rather more of a grain 
than dairying region, being upland limestone land. The cows kept for 
dairy purposes are grade Jerseys and Holsteins. The scarcity of sum- 
mer feed late in the season is supplemented by corn- fodder. Cows are 
well housed in winter and fed upon hay, shock-fodder, and grain. The 
past season was quite wet. 

Oswego County, central part of the State, has upland pastures, prin- 
cipally of white clover, good in the early part of the season. The rain- 
fall of la,st season produced coarse herbage, consequently poor milk. 
The summer climate is perfect, but the winters are long and severe, 
often with very deep snows. Stock is indifferently wintered. Short- 
horn, Ayrshire, and Holstein grades prevail. Very little ensilage is 
fed. More cheese than butter is made. Instances of the injurious 
effect of bad water upon cheese-making are reported. 

Otsego County, central part of the State, is a fine dairy region, with 
good water and grasses. Climatic influences favorable. Pasturage 
mostly upon upland and unusually good last season, although late in 
spring. Cows are Short-horns, Devons, and a few Jerseys. Holstein 
crosses are being made, but with doubtful advantage as respects qual- 
ity of milk for butter, yet for cheese they are considered superior. 
Jersey crosses are more satisfactory. Cows are wintered in warm sta- 
bles, and well fed upon hay, fodder, grain, wheat-middlings, corn and 
oat meal; in many instances upon ensilage. In some sections cows were 
not turned to pasture until last of May and returned to stables in Octo- 
ber. Cold rains shortened the working season. 

Eensselaer County, eastern part of the State, possesses good pastur- 
age of timothy and clover, and some mountain pastures of wild grasses. 
Good spring water abounds. Cows are wintered on good hay, with no 
grain until spring. Holstein cattle are numerous. 

Saint Lawrence County, northern part of the State, has pastures of 
the very best kind, being chiefly upland, sometimes rocky, but afford- 
ing the sweetest grasses. Pure spring water from the hills abounds. 
Climate healthy, although variable in temperature. Winters long and 
cold, requiring stock to be well stabled and well fed. The season of 



29 

1885 was very wet, and feed was plentiful. Milk was not as rich as 
usual. Cows are principally natives, although grades of all the im- 
proved breeds are to be found. Too many cows are said to have been 
kept by some farmers, which greatly injured the pasturage. The win- 
ter feeding of cows consisted ot all kinds of feed, except ensilage, which 
seems not to have been introduced. In the spring at calving time cows 
are fed by some farmers upon a mixture of oats, peas, aud barley ground 
together. In one section where the soil is quite sandy, green forage 
crops are supplied for the maintenance of the flow of milk. Fall feed 
was much injured by early frosts. 

Schenectady County, eastern part of the State, is devoted to mixed 
farming rather than dairying, being somewhat restricted in pasturage. 
Corn fodder is largely used to eke out the summer feed, which is mostly 
clover. Last season was very dry until September, when it became 
very wet. Cows are roughly wintered on coarse food. 

Steuben County, southwestern part of the State, wa.s affected by dry 
weather, greatly shortening the pasturage. The quality of dairy stock 
is above medium and generally well cared for during the winter months. 

Washington County, eastern part of the State, was favored with good 
pasturage the past season. Cows are well stabled, well fed, and well 
cared for. They are all of mixed breeds, and receive in the spring corn 
and oatmeal with wheat-middlings, until grass comes. Corn is sowed 
for use as feed when the upland pastures become dry. One section of 
this county consists of poorlv -watered hill land, affording indifferent 
pasturage and milk of inferior quality. Native cattle predominate in 
the county, although many grade Ayrshires and Holsteins are to be 
found. 

From Wyoming Couuty, western part of the State, comes the follow- 
ing report : 

We observe much trouble from the prevalence of many and vigorous taint germs 
in the atmosphere of this locality. Elsewhere we have fouud these taint or fever 
germs entirely uuknown. The trouble is aggravated by carelessness in many cases, 
but no amount of care can preveut it here. The only remedy is to kill the germs by 
scalding the milk to 130°, or by the Swiss process, which scalds the curd to 130°. 
We largely practice the latter method ; we discard both the " sweet curd" aud " acid 
process " ; one-fourth of the material of the curd must be acid and the remainder sweet. 
Our experience covers a period of fifty years. 

OHIO. 

Ashland County, northern part of the State, is reputed to be a good 
grazing country; winters severe; cows well cared for in warm stables 
with an abundance of feed^ cows are grades from Short-horn, Holstein 
and Jersey breeds. 

Ashtabula County, northeastern part of the State, reports the con- 
dition of pasturage variously ; coarse and unproductive from excess of 
rain; injured by grasshoppers and drought; and again above the aver- 
age in quantity and quality. W r hite clover and blue grass prevail upon 



30 

rolling land; climate changeable, being subject to early and late frosts 
and droughts, yet more mild generally than counties either east or west. 
Cows are more or less grades of the improved breeds, and are well housed 
and cared for in winter, and fed liberally upon corn fodder, hay and 
grain, with shorts or bran. Low prices is the general complaint of dairy- 
men, and an inclination to decline the business is manifested. 

Carroll County, eastern part of the State, lias natural pastures as well 
as those of the cultivated fields. Cattle are crosses of Short horns, Jer- 
seys and Holsteins, and are wintered in warm stables and well fed. 

Columbiana County, northeastern part of the State, is largely en- 
gaged in the manufacture of imitation Swiss cheese, and a kind of but- 
ter very poor in quality, called u whey butter." Cool weather consider- 
ably diminished the yield of milk. 

Cuyahoga County, northeastern part of the State, represents dairy- 
ing to have been favorably conducted, on account of the excellence of 
pasturage, although an unaccountable shrinkage was experienced. Cli- 
mate variable. Stock common; half wintered well ; the rest poorly. 

Fulton County, northwestern part of the State, reports good pastures 
the past season. Cows are grade Short-horns. A small amount of 
grain is fed during the winter, and some farmers feed mill-stuff during 
summer until fodder corn is ready to be cut. 

In Geauga County, northeastern part of the State, pasturage was 
good last season, although injured somewhat by grasshoppers- Climate 
favorable to grass growing and a generous yield of milk. Winter feed 
for cows was abundant. The cows are natives, with grade Short-horns 
and Holsteins. They are wintered in the usual manner of this section, 
long, dry feed, with the addition of fine meal twice a day. 

The region near Geauga Lake is especially adapted to dairying, being 
hilly, with plenty of soft spring water. Cows are well cared for in 
summer and in winter are stabled in warm basement barns and are fed 
upon the best timothy and clover hay. Great improvement in the 
dairy stock has been made by the introduction of the Holstein, Ayr- 
shire, and Short-horn breeds. 

Greene County, western part of the State, was favored with good 
pasturage, not very luxuriant, but in fair condition for grazing. Blue 
grass abounds in well-shaded pastures, and cows are additionally fur- 
nished with ten ears of com per head per day. They are well salted, 
summer and winter, and have corn and cob meal and roots added to 
their long feed in winter, and are well housed at night and stormy 
days. 

Huron County, northern part of the State, reports a favorable con- 
dition of the dairy industry, with good climatic influences and excellent 
pasturage. Sowed corn- fodder is provided for the cows in the fall 
months. Holstein and Short-horn grades are numerous, well fed, and 
stabled in winter. 






31 

Lorain County, northern part of the State, had abundant grass, pro- 
duced by a wet season. Cows are grades of all the improved breeds,, 
the Short horn crosses being considered the most desirable. 

Mahoning County, northeastern part of the State. The pastures of 
this county consist of natural grasses ; also of timothy and clover fields. 
Excessive rainfall rendered the pasturage "washy." Cows are stabled 
in winter and secured either by stanchions or chains, and are fed upon 
hay, fodder, and grain. 

Muskingum County, central part of the State, had not very good 
pastures, timothy aud clover being greatly frozen out the previous win- 
ter. Cows are chiefly natives, although some grades of Jerseys, Devons r 
and Shorthorns are to be, found. The best farmers care for their cows 
in winter by providing warm stables and good provender, with the 
addition of mill-feed. 

In Portage County, northeastern part of the State, pasturage was 
injured by grasshoppers and excessive rainfall. Parts of the county 
are low, marshy land and parts hilly. Cows are Holstein, Short-horn r 
and Devon grades, generally well wintered and well fed. 

From Stark County, northeastern part of State, one correspondent 
says: 

In regard to pasturing and feeding cows, they should have plenty of fresh water 
to drink, and should not be allowed to stand in deep water, as it is an injury to the 
flow of milk. It is an advantage to feed a small amount of hay each day when 
pasturage is soft, no matter how abundant the grass may be. 

Pastures in this county were infested with grasshoppers about the 
1st of September. The climate is all that could be desired, except the 
great length and severity of winter. 

Trumbull County, northeastern part of the State. The pasturage of 
this county is esteemed excellent, being composed of white clover, tim- 
othy, and red- top, with some blue grass. Springs of good water abound. 
Cows are grade Short-horns, Jerseys, and Holsteins, and are placed in 
warm stables in winter and abuudantly fed. 

Union County, central part of the State, reports good pastures and 
cows in excellent condition. Short-horn grades prevail, and are well 
wintered on hay, corn-fodder, and corn in the shock. 

Wayne County, northern part of the State, is not rated as a very 
great dairy district. Pasturage was good, comprising timothy, blue 
grass, and white clover, with running water in the fields. Cows are 
chiefly natives, with some grades of Short-horns. 

Wyandot County, northern part of the State, gives a singular state- 
ment — that "the average production of milk per cow has decreased 
fully one-quarter per cow for the summer season in the last eight years, 
when we had all native cows." 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

Berks County, southeastern part of the State, contains pasturage 
principally of timothy and clover. Cows are well wintered in barns 






32 

and liberally fed upon ground corn, wheat bran, oil cake, and wheat 
middlings. Bran is often given to cows as a daily ration during sum- 
mer. 

From Bucks County, southeastern part of the State, comes the gen- 
eral statement that drought materially shortened the summer pasturage, 
requiring the use of shorts or bran to supplement the feed. Cows in 
this county are principally natives, although many grades are owned, 
and in one case Jerseys are exclusively used. Good stables are pro- 
vided in winter, and the feeding comprises cut corn fodder with bran 
and middlings, also oil cake, corn and oat meal, and hay. 

Chester County, southeastern part of the State, is a large dairy re- 
gion from which very few returns have been received. Cheese making 
has been largely engaged in, principally " skim cheese," but this has 
been discontinued, and butter is now made exclusively. Winter dairy- 
ing is said to be prosecuted with greater profit than summer, bringing 
an increase of from twelve to fifteen cents per pound. The custom of 
feeding a quart of bran to each cow in addition to pasturage, prevails. 
Drought during the season shortened the feed, and lessened the yield of 
milk. As respects pastures, good water and salubrious climate, this 
section excels for dairying. Clover hay is largely fed in winter, with 
corn and oat meal, and bran. In oue case, four to eight quarts of cob- 
meal and bran are fed to each cow. Cows are chiefly natives, with a 
few grade Jerseys. 

Crawford County, northwestern part of the State, has many of the 
requirements of a good dairy region, although the soil is not considered 
very fertile. Good climate, good grasses, and good water. The stock, 
however, is of an ordinary character, and not well provided with food 
and shelter during the winter months. 

Erie County, northwestern part of the State, was favored with past- 
ures productive of good milk. Cows are well cared for in winter-, be- 
ing stabled and grain fed, which renders them more profitable in sum- 
mer. Short-horn crosses are considered the most desirable. 

Lancaster County, southeastern part of the State, reports good past- 
urage, except during July. The heavy rains in August made feed of 
excellent quality, giving great increase of milk. Success attends all 
who have good cows, especially of the Jersey or Guernsey breeds. 

Montgomery County, southeastern part of the State, was subjected 
to a continuous drought throughout the season, rendering the pastures 
unfit for cows' food, Owing to the growth of garlic and bitter weeds. 
Wheat bran was fed all the season, 8 or 10 pounds per cow. Cows are 
well wintered in warm stables, receiving liberal quantities of cut corn 
fodder, bran, oil cake meal, wheat middlings, and some malt dust ; en- 
silage not used. Owing to the changeableness of the climate, cows are 
stabled every night in summer, and the most of them irom 10 to 4 
o'clock in the day-time through the heat of summer. Cows are princi- 
pally of native, western Pennsylvania stock. A few grade Short-horns 
and Holsteins are used, and some pure bred Jerseys. 



33 

VERMONT. 

Addison County, western part of the State, is largely devoted to 
dairying. An abundance of rain the past season produced the best of 
pasturage. This section is reputed to be unexcelled for dairy purposes, 
considering climate, pastures, and pure water. Fine herds of Jersey 
cattle are to be found, and fancy butter-making is the rule. Within a 
year sixty head of pure bred Holsteins have been introduced. 

Bennington County, southwestern part of the State, has a rough, hilly, 
rocky surface for pastures. Droughts of previous years and very cold 
winters injured the grasses, and many weeds have appeared, quite hard 
to eradicate. Cows are necessarily fed six months in the year in barns 
on hay, fodder, and grain. Native stock prevail, with an occasional ad- 
mixture of Jersey and Holstein blood. 

Chittenden County, northwestern part of the State, has pastures gen- 
erally upon hilly, gravelly upland, where the grasses are particularly 
sweet and nutritious. The past season the white grub and grasshoppers 
injured the pasturage, as did a drought in June. Grade Short- horn cat- 
tle predominate. 

Franklin County, northwestern part of the State, boasts of possess- 
ing the best pasture land in the State. The hills are high and water 
pure. The grasses are sweet, and impart a flavor to butter not found 
elsewhere. Climate too cold for winter dairying. 

Lamoille County, northern part of the State, " labors under the dis- 
advantage of early frosts, which, occurring at both ends of the season, 
reduced the flow of milk." 

Eutland County, western part of the State, has excellent streams of 
running water, but of a limestone character. Climate favorable for 
dairying. Pastures indifferent. Old grass lands, where cattle have 
been kept for twenty-five years, are becoming infested with a weed called 
" steeple-top." Native cattle are crossed with Ayrshire and Holstein 
breeds, an improvement for dairy purposes. 

WASHINGTON TERRITORY. 

Clarke County, southwestern part of the Territory, has very rid 
pasture land on the Columbia River bottoms, with varieties of grasses 
that produce the richest milk and best butter. 

Clallam County, northwestern part of the Territory, is a very favor- 
able section for the manufacture of butter, having an excellent climate, 
and a soil productive of several varieties of clover, that are desirable 
both for pasturage and hay. Natural grasses also abound. The climate 
is good and never too warm to make butter without ice. 

Klikitat County, southern part of the Territory, is favored with a good 
climate for dairying. Pastures are on the river, and when this over- 
flows, as is usual in June and July, the cattle are removed to the mount- 
ain meadows, where the feed is very good. The winters are short. 
6033 D 3 



34 

'Cows are fed only three months, and are sheltered during cold rain- 
storms. 

Lewis County, southwestern part of the Territory, is largely composed 
of reclaimed swamp land, well ditched and set with timothy, red-top, 
English rye, and orchard grasses; red, white, and alsike clovers. These 
form the best of pasturage in the driest seasons. The cows are fed an 
abundance of good hay, and, after cheese-making, they are fed upon 
sheaf oats and hay, to keep them in good condition. Climate best in 
the world for dairying. Butter and cheese not excelled. Dairy cows 
are natives, mixed with Holsteins. 

Pacific County southwestern part of the Territory, reports dairying 
on the decline, owing to low prices. It is stated that " the uniformity 
of climate makes a uniformity of pastures. Situated near the ocean, 
this is a natural grass country, and is unexcelled for dairying." 

San Juan County, northwestern part of the Territory is considered to 
possess a climate favorable to the manufacture of butter. The pastur- 
age is good, although water is scarce. Grade Jerseys are owned here, 
and are stabled in winter and stormy weather. 

Whatcom County, northwestern part of the Territory, has no butter 
or cheese factory notwithstanding the great adaptability of soil and 
climate for dairying. 

WISCONSIN. 

Dane County, southern part of the State, is not extensively devoted 
to dairying. The pastures are principally on bottom or valley land, 
often too marshy for good grass. On the cultivated lands, however, 
timothy, white and red clover, and blue grass flourish, and furnish ex- 
cellent feed. The climate is favorable for dairying. Large barns with 
warm basement stables are generally provided for cows in winter 
weather which continues seven months. u Cattle cannot be wintered 
out of doors in this section, even if they get plenty of feed." Limburger 
cheese is here manufactured with success, as shown by the award of the 
first premium at the World's Exposition at New Orleans to one manu- 
facturer of this county. Native cows are the chief reliance, although 
grades of Short-horn and Holstein breeds are numerous. 

Dunn County, northwestern part of the State, claims the best results 
in dairying, although the character of the soil is sandy, which does not 
usually afford the strongest pasturage. A good supply of water and a 
healthy climate insure freedom from disease of any kind to cattle. Farm- 
ers have been neglectful of providing shelter for cows, but good barns 
are now being erected. 

Fond du Lac County, eastern part of the State, reports a wet season 
and indifferent pasturage, producing milk of poor quality. Dairying is 
on the increase, especially the manufacture of cheese. The excessive 
heat of summer often impairs the products of cheese and butter. Cows 
are stabled about half the year, and well fed ; the best fed being the 
most productive. Ayrshire, Short-horn, and Holstein breeds give great 
satisfaction. 



35 

Jefferson County, southeastern part of the State. The pastures of 
this county are low and marshy, consequently the feed is coarse and 
uuproductive. High lands, when seeded in timothy and clover, afford 
the best pasturage. The winters are very cold, aud cows are necessarily 
fed upon grain in addition to long feed. Cows are of ordinary kind, 
some are mixed Jerseys and Holsteins. 

Juneau County, central part of the State is claimed to be " the finest 
grass and dairy region in the world, abounding in springs." 

La Crosse County, western part of the State, was favored with a pro- 
pitious season and good pasturage. Cows are grades of Short-horns 
and Jersey breeds, which are stabled and liberally fed during winter. 

La Fayette County, southern part of the State, has good pastures of 
the best grasses, a congenial and temperate climate, and stock of Jersey 
and Short-horn blood. 

Ozaukee County, eastern part of the State, has a cool season, giving 
uniformity to the quality of products. The climate is very favor- 
able for cheese making, as cool breezes from Lake Michigan prevail. 
Cows are sheltered in winter, and fed upon hay, grain, and roots. 
Natives, crossed with Jersey, Devon, and Short-horn breeds, prevail. 

Eichland County, southwestern part of the State, has " white clover, 
upland pastures, and clear running water, all of which we think neces- 
sary to the manufacture of good butter and cheese." 

Sheboygan County, eastern part of the State, was once a timbered 
country, but has been immensely improved of late years. The soil is 
rich and productive of all kinds of grain and grass. Dairying is largely 
engaged in, and great care is given the cows, which are of the improved 
breeds, Guernsey, Holstein, and Ayrshire. Good shelter and good feed 
secure profitable results. 

Walworth County, southeastern part of the State, suffered from too 
much wet weather. Good cows of Holstein, Short-horn, Ayrshire, and 
Jersey breeds are employed in the dairy, the Jerseys being preferred 
for butter-making. " The winter feed of cows consists of clover and 
timothy hay, with cob-meal and one-third bran added, each cow receiv- 
ing 8 quarts daily of the mixture." 

Washington County, eastern part of the State. u Bed clover, which 
constitutes one of the principal pasture grasses in this vicinity, was 
frozen out to a considerable extent last winter, consequently there was 
not that abundance of food for cows as in former years. There was less 
milk from cows, but the quality was at least 5 per cent, better than 
last year." 

Waupaca County, central part of the State. "Dairying is compara- 
tively a new industry in this section, but it is being discovered that the 
dairymen who have expended a little money in building comfortable 
stables and supplying cattle with necessary food to keep them in good 
condit'on through the winter are the ones who are most successful." 



LBJe'13 



